Sliding oil prices and weakening Russia over conflict in Syria will encourage negotiations on Donbas

USA and Russia are closer to reaching an agreement on the conflict in eastern Ukraine. It becomes obvious as diplomatic activity of both sides begins to rise, it is said in the report of American intelligence company Stratfor.

Ukrainian and Russian mass media report preparation of a “secret deal”, which will become a compromise in providing political and security measures demanded by Kyiv and Moscow to settle the situation in Donbas.

Although, there are many reasons to be skeptical about it. Kyiv officials claim they do not consider any compromises with Moscow until Minsk deals are implemented, which involves restoring control over Ukrainian border and withdrawing of Russian troops from Donbas. Moscow, in its turn, insists that Kyiv adopt amendments to the Constitution providing more autonomy to separatist-held territories.

Negotiations can be further encouraged by sliding oil prices and Russia’s involvement in Syrian conflict.